BEARMAN, Henry Kenneth Gordon (1907-1985) Leyton (WALTHAM FOREST) 1924; East Ham (NEWHAM) 1928; CL West Sussex 1937-1970
Many clergymen have become librarians although seldom in public libraries. Public librarians who have become priests have been much rarer. Bearman was one of the exceptional examples; he served the Church of England as a part-time curate until approaching Local Government retirement; he was subsequently a full-time vicar. His period at WEST SUSSEX was notable, partly because of the large number of new branches opened but also because of his pioneer activity in computerization and automation. He was active in the LA and associated bodies.